CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – While November has been warmer than usual, colder weather is expected later this week, bringing potential risks to your garden.
When temperatures drop to the 30s, experts warn that frost can damage or kill delicate vegetables and flowers. To protect your plants, covering them is essential.
Experts recommend covering your plants in the afternoon before temperatures dip. Use old bedspreads, blankets, or towels, and drape them loosely over the plants, making sure they reach the ground for added insulation. Avoid using plastic bags, as they trap moisture and aren’t breathable.
Whenever possible, it’s best to bring plants indoors, especially small container gardens or those in nursery pots.
For long-term plant protection, watering is key. Experts note that moist soil retains up to four times more heat than dry soil, so watering thoroughly before cold weather hits can help keep plants safe.
Mulch is also beneficial. A thick layer can insulate plants, and you can remove it once warmer weather returns.
Lastly, gardeners advise against cultivating the soil before a frost or freeze. Disturbing the soil can damage plant roots and allow cold air to reach deeper into the ground.
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